2019 Mazda Mazda3 Preferred

The 2019 Mazda3 is Mazda's compact car, offered as both a sedan and a hatchback, and it's a natural rival to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Driving the Mazda3 feels more connected than most in this class, with sharp steering and a chassis that encourages a spirited pace. Inside, the cabin is a cut above the class norm, with high-quality materials and a clean, driver-focused layout. The hatchback offers more cargo flexibility than the sedan, though rear seat space is on the snug side for taller passengers. Stepping up to the Preferred trim from the Select adds a power moonroof, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control, making it the sweet spot for daily comfort. Its 2.5L I4 makes 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and with all-wheel drive and the six-speed automatic, it feels eager through corners and planted in wet weather. The hatchback body style means you get a wide opening cargo area and fold-down rear seats, though rear headroom is a bit tight for tall passengers.